The Tide ride switched hands Thursday, as Travis Kvapil will take the wheel for '06. Credit: Autostock

Kvapil takes over No. 32

Hamilton Jr. parts ways with PPI after 44 starts

HICKORY, N.C. -- PPI Motorsports announced Thursday that 2003 Craftsman Truck Series champion Travis Kvapil will replace Bobby Hamilton Jr. as driver of the No. 32 Tide/Downy Chevrolet for the 2006 NASCAR Nextel Cup season.

	Credit: Autostock
	TRAVIS KVAPIL •   Driver page •   2005 stats

"PPI Motorsports is excited to have Travis join the Tide Racing team," said Cal Wells III, owner of PPI Motorsports. "I believe he will be a strong addition to our organization especially under the tutelage of crew chief James Ince. The two of them, along with the new crew we have assembled, have the ability to reach the goals set forth by this organization. We have experienced some unfortunate setbacks over the last two seasons, and I am determined to get PPI Motorsports back in contention for race victories in 2006. I believe Travis can certainly make that happen for us and I am proud to have him on board."

Kvapil, a native of Janesville, Wis., will embark on his second full season in NASCAR's premiere series after competing last year for Penske-Jasper Racing where he recorded two top-10 and 18 top-25 finishes. He was able to join PPIM when Penske-Jasper Racing released him after a joint decision was made by Penske and sponsor Kodak not to field the No. 77 car in 2006.

"As the saying goes, when one door closes another will open," Kvapil said. "I feel fortunate that the door to PPI Motorsports has opened to me. I want to thank Cal for giving me the chance to drive one of the most recognizable race cars in NASCAR. Tide has been in the sport for a long time and has experienced a lot of success in the past. I am honored and will do everything I can to become a part of the Tide winning tradition. All of the resources to succeed are in place here at PPI Motorsports so I am excited to get the season started."

	Credit: Autostock
	BOBBY HAMILTON JR. •   Driver page •   2005 Stats

Kvapil first made his mark in NASCAR during an impressive four-season run in the Craftsman Truck Series. During that time, he captured one championship, five victories, one pole, 40 top-fives and 64 top-10s. Plus, he never finished outside of the top-10 in the driver championship points standings.

Earlier Thursday, PPIM announced it was parting ways with Hamilton Jr.

"I want to thank Bobby for his efforts over the past year and a half," Wells said. "I wish Bobby nothing but the best as he pursues his options for next season."

In 44 starts for PPIM, Hamilton Jr. produced three top-15 and 13 top-25 finishes.